South Africa has introduced a new inflation target of 3 percent with a 1 percentage point tolerance band, marking a significant shift in the country’s monetary policy framework aimed at reinforcing price stability and long-term economic growth.
The Minister of Finance announced the new target on Wednesday following an agreement with the Governor of the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) and consultation with the President and Cabinet.
“This decision follows agreement between the Governor of the South African Reserve Bank and the Minister,” the Treasury said in a joint statement.
“The 1 percentage point band provides flexibility to accommodate any unexpected inflationary shocks.”
The new target replaces the previous inflation range of 3 percent to 6 percent, which has guided South Africa’s monetary policy for over two decades. It will be implemented over the next two years, with authorities noting that a lower and narrower target band will enhance policy credibility, lower inflation expectations, and contribute to reduced interest rates.
“Over time, the lower target will decrease inflation expectations and inflation, creating room for lower interest rates,” the statement added. “This supports household spending and business investment, boosting economic growth and job creation.
”The adjustment follows a comprehensive review by the Macroeconomic Standing Committee of the Treasury and SARB, which assessed international best practices and local economic conditions.
The review recommended revising the target to strengthen the framework and enhance price stability by better anchoring inflation expectations and aligning South Africa to international best practice.
While acknowledging potential short-term trade-offs, the Treasury said the benefits of a lower target outweigh the costs.
“While short-term fiscal costs of a lower target, which include lower nominal gross domestic product and revenue growth, make achieving fiscal targets more challenging, the long-term benefits for the economy far outweigh the costs.” The Treasury said.
The SARB emphasized that it will maintain clear and consistent communication regarding inflation outcomes.
“The SARB will pursue the target on a continuous basis and clearly communicate any deviations from the target,” the statement said.
